When did you last watch something that made you feel patriotic? If it has been a while, we recommend these local movies that portray our forefathers’ struggles in fighting for independence. We believe that watching them can ignite the spirit of Merdeka and instill a sense of pride and joy in you.

So this Merdeka weekend, step back in time and go on a historical journey through these movies that may bring back nostalgia to some or remind you of what it means to love your country.

BUKIT KEPONG (1981)

 

Set during post-world war II in 1950, this movie focuses on the incident that took place in a small village named Bukit Kepong. Based on real events, it chronicles the time when communists attacked the Bukit Kepong Police Station and how the police and the villagers fought bravely to defend it. Directed by and starring Tan Sri Jins Shamsudin, it features a cast of other well-known actors who you can see in their younger versions.  Packed with action, this movie truly depicts the bloodied battle that took place and slayed the lives of brave policemen and villagers. Bukit Kepong would not have been made possible without the cooperation from the PDRM who star alongside the cast. Recently digitally remastered in HD, viewers get a more enhanced experience compared to the original version so it is definitely a movie worth seeing.

1957: HATI MALAYA (2007)

 

Boasting a talented cast and directed by Shuhaimi Baba, this two-hour film recounts the events leading to our independence. It follows four friends compiling a picture book titled 1957, as they reflect on the past, intertwining their memories with the impactful efforts of Dato’ Onn Jaafar and Tunku Abdul Rahman. Actual footage of significant historical events enhances the story. The movie, which won several awards at the 2008 Malaysian Film Festival, thoughtfully captures the era’s essence through language and the vintage kebaya worn by female actors. Watching this film will surely ignite your patriotism by the end.

A decent selection of equally good local merdeka movies exists to promote the same theme. These films appear in various forms, whether fictional like Sarjan Hassan or based on true stories like Leftenan Adnan. In short, sometimes a movie reminds us and rekindles our patriotism. So choose your favorites and gather the family to feel the spirit of patriotism and love for our beloved country, Malaysia, together through these local movies.

Selamat Hari Merdeka!